The aroma of butterscotch brownies and coconut cream pie wrapped around us like a warm hug as Julia and I settled into a cozy corner of the café. Bright papel picado banners and colorful sombreros signaled that Cinco de Mayo celebrations were just around the corner. Despite the festive setting, Julia’s face was clouded with worry.
She poked at her pie absentmindedly before finally saying, “I’m scared, Bob. The honeymoon phase with my boyfriend is over. Now, things feel different. He’s so busy with work, we barely get time to talk. When we don’t, my mind just races — what is he doing, what if he stops caring?”
I listened carefully and then smiled and shared, “Julia, you can’t force someone to stay by worrying. Love isn’t about gripping tighter; it’s about giving space and trusting the bond you’ve built. Let them. Let them be busy. Let them deal with life. Let them figure it out. If your boyfriend truly cares, a few missed conversations won’t make him leave. Real love isn’t fragile — it doesn’t snap just because of a hectic week.”
She looked at me, eyes wide. I continued, “You can only love them, support them and let them know you’re there. If it’s meant to be, he’ll stay—not because you held on, but because he wants to.”
Julia let out a deep breath, the tension in her shoulders easing. A smile finally crept back onto her face. “Thank you, Bob. I needed to hear that.”
As we smiled together, I realized something: we all sometimes need a reminder that love isn’t about control — it’s about trust.
Dear Reader, if you’re anxious about someone drifting away, remember this: You don’t have to chase love. The right people don’t leave because of tough schedules or temporary silences.
Love built on understanding, patience and trust survives the quiet times, too. So, breathe easy. Give love freely — and it will stay if it’s meant to!
